Desire2Learn Offers $10,000 for Edge Competition

Open to post-secondary students, the Edge Competition asks participants "to create a mobile, Web, or desktop application that enhances the experience of students, instructors, or administrators in an educational context," according to a news release about the contest.

In addition to $10,000, the first-place team will receive a trip for two team members and a mentor to Fusion 2014, the Desire2Learn user conference.

To enter the contest, teams must submit a video to Youtube explaining their idea, how it will work, and why it is innovative by November 11. A final video and a link to a completed application will also be required by December 16. Projects will then be judged on innovation, impact, and polish. Finalists will be announced January 6, and the winner will be announced February 6.

"The Desire2Learn Edge Challenge is one of my favorite initiatives as it combines entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to innovation — both characteristics that have helped fuel our success at Desire2Learn," said John Baker, president and CEO at Desire2Learn, in a prepared statement. "The Desire2Learn Edge Challenge is an authentic exercise in the trials and tribulations of the software development industry. Students must work together to create applications that not only work, but are brilliant. It is a difficult challenge, but the results of past year's winners have been exceptional and we look forward to rewarding the next generation's great ed tech minds with the recognition they deserve."